Schottenheimer, 51, was elevated to head coach on January 24, 2025, after serving as the team’s offensive coordinator for the past two seasons. His promotion marked his first head coaching role in the NFL, bringing with him 25 years of coaching experience, including 14 as an offensive coordinator. His tenure as head coach, however, has been unexpectedly short-lived.
In a statement released earlier today, Schottenheimer expressed gratitude for the opportunity but cited personal reasons for his departure. “I am deeply thankful to the Jones family and the entire Cowboys organization for the trust they placed in me,” Schottenheimer said. “After much contemplation, I have decided to step down to focus on personal matters that require my immediate attention.”
Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones addressed the media following the announcement. “We respect Brian’s decision and are grateful for his contributions to the team,” Jones remarked. “His leadership and dedication have been invaluable, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”
The Cowboys now face the challenge of finding a new head coach as the offseason progresses. The timing of Schottenheimer’s departure adds complexity to the situation, with free agency set to begin on March 12 and the NFL Draft scheduled for April 24-26 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Potential candidates for the head coaching position include internal staff and external prospects. The Cowboys previously interviewed Philadelphia Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, former New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh, and former Minnesota Vikings head coach Leslie Frazier before promoting Schottenheimer. It remains to be seen whether these individuals will be reconsidered or if new candidates will emerge.
The sudden coaching vacancy comes at a pivotal time for the Cowboys, who are looking to rebound from a 7-10 season. The team recently made significant moves, including signing defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa to a four-year, $80 million contract, signaling a commitment to strengthening their roster.
Quarterback Dak Prescott, who has been recovering from a torn hamstring surgery, expressed his thoughts on the unexpected change. “Coach Schottenheimer brought a wealth of knowledge and passion to our team,” Prescott stated. “While we’re saddened by his departure, we remain focused and optimistic about the future.”
As the Cowboys embark on the search for their next head coach, the organization and its fans hope for a swift and seamless transition to ensure the team is prepared for the upcoming season. The new head coach will need to address pressing issues, including potential contract restructures for key players like Prescott and wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, as well as decisions regarding defensive leader Micah Parsons, who is entering the final year of his rookie deal.
The Cowboys’ leadership has assured stakeholders that the search for a new head coach will be thorough and expedient. “Our priority is to find a leader who aligns with our values and vision for the team’s future,” Jerry Jones emphasized. “We are committed to bringing another Super Bowl championship to Dallas.”
As developments unfold, Cowboys fans and the broader NFL community will be watching closely to see how the team navigates this unexpected transition.
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